Zef Shala, Director of the Humanitarian Association “Mother Teresa,” recently detailed the formative years of a crucial healthcare initiative for the Albanian community in Kosovo during the 1990s. The establishment of the ambulance and maternity ward, which initially operated from the residence of a significant benefactor, was a pivotal moment in regional healthcare history. In an interview conducted for the “Përballje Podcast” via Telegrafi, Shala highlighted the unique contributions of Shaban Svirca.
He characterized Svirca as an exceptionally dedicated donor within the health sector, noting that the benefactor made both his personal residence and resources available to serve the needs of the local population. According to Shala, the initial operational base for the “Mother Teresa” ambulance service was housed within the Svirca home. From this location, a team led by Dr.
Gani Demolli coordinated the broader health services across Kosovo. This arrangement underscores the critical role philanthropy played in sustaining essential medical infrastructure when formal systems faced considerable challenges. Shala’s recounting provides valuable insight into the history of how community support facilitated vital services.
The reliance on a single, generous donor like Svirca allowed the organization to rapidly establish a coordinated network, ensuring that basic medical care, including maternity services, remained accessible to the community during that period. The account emphasizes the enduring impact of private generosity on public health outcomes.
Topics: #donor #svirca #history
